Salad dressings are a great way to start making your own. Not only will you save money, but the taste is much better with fresh ingredients. Even better, you can avoid it vegetable oils and other additives from store-bought clothing.
This balsamic vinaigrette is one of my favorites homemade salad dressings. It's super easy to make at home and tastes great!
Quality homemade balsamic vinaigrette
Balsamic vinegar was an acquired taste for me and a love story. When I was little I didn't like it at all and now it's one of my favorite foods. It also has an incredibly unique history.
Real balsamic vinegar is aged for at least 12 years. It is made from unfermented must, a reduction of thick grape juice. The balsamic vinaigrette is aged in up to five different types of barrels, many more than half a century old. It can only be produced in the Modena and Reggio regions of Italy.
Balsamic vinegar made with these strict guidelines can get “Traditional Balsamic Vinegar” label in Italy and is considered a price vinegar.
Most balsamic vinegars on store shelves are made by a similar process, but aged for a shorter time. They are also made with a reduction of grape juice, but are only aged for at least 3 years. This type of balsamic vinegar is more readily available in most places.
Some products labeled as “balsamic vinegar” in stores are really just cider vinegar or other cheap vinegars colored to look like real balsamic vinegar. Check labels and look for a high-quality brand to avoid these, as some may contain them artificial colors and tastes.
Balsamic dressing ingredients
Turn over a bottle of store-bought salad dressing and you'll find ingredients like soybean oil, corn syrup and even food coloring. This recipe is simple and tastes so much better than many of the store brands! It starts with balsamic vinegar (of course!) for acidity that is balanced by honey. Some recipes use sugar or maple syrup as a sweetener.
Other common ingredients include herbs such as oregano and chives for flavor. I use basil and a minced garlic clove in mine. Dijon mustard adds extra flavor and a hint of spiciness while being heart-healthy olive oil forms the base of the garment.
How to use the balsamic vinaigrette dressing
It's the old standby of a salad green, but balsamic vinaigrette isn't just for lettuce! Although it tastes amazing in a spinach salad with some goat cheese, strawberries and pecans. It also makes an excellent marinade for meat. Paint it roasted or fried vegetables for extra flavor. You can also use it as a pasta salad dressing. For a delicious gluten-free option, use rice pasta.
However you use it, balsamic vinaigrette is an easy and delicious way to dress up your meals!
Recipe for balsamic vinaigrette
This simple balsamic vinaigrette can be made in minutes to flavor any salad or vegetable.
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Combine all ingredients in a small jar, cover and shake until combined.
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Use as desired in salad, vegetables or as a marinade on meat.
Nutrition facts
Recipe for balsamic vinaigrette
Amount Per Serving (1 TBSP)
Calories 74
Calories from fat 63
% Daily Value*
Fat 7 g11%
Saturated fat 1 g6%
Unsaturated fat 1 g
Monounsaturated fat 5 g
Sodium 83 mg4%
potassium 11 mg0%
Carbohydrates 2 g1%
Fiber 0.1 g0%
Sugar 2 g2%
Protein 0.1 g0%
Vitamin A 1 IU0%
Vitamin C 0.1 mg0%
Calcium 4 mg0%
Iron 0.2 mg1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Not just for salad! Try tossing this vinaigrette over roasted vegetables.
More salad dressing recipes
Looking for some new recipes to try with your next salad? Here are some!
What's your favorite way to use balsamic vinaigrette? Leave a comment and let us know!
